Episode Summary: In this episode of the Pierce & Shows Personal Injury Post-Script, Attorney Chris Shows explains the nuances of Louisiana's new comparative fault law. He delves into the transition from contributory negligence to comparative fault, the impact of the recent tort reform, and how fault percentages determine recovery amounts for accident victims.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Transition from contributory negligence to comparative fault 03:15 – Overview of Louisiana's modified comparative fault regime 05:45 – Significance of the 1% threshold in fault allocation 07:20 – Factors influencing fault percentages in complex accidents 09:10 – Determining fault percentages: police reports vs. fact-finder decisions 11:05 – Importance of gathering evidence at the accident scene 12:40 – Impact of fault percentages on recovery amounts 14:25 – Challenges faced by motorcyclists in proving liability 16:10 – Best advice for accident victims under the new law

About the Show: Pierce & Shows Personal Injury Post-Script is a podcast hosted by Mike Leon, featuring Attorney Chris Shows, a seasoned Baton Rouge Personal Injury Attorney with over 30 years of experience. The show focuses on providing clarity, compassion, and strong trial advocacy for accident victims in South Eastern Louisiana.

In this episode, Attorney Chris Shows discusses why having a lawyer with real courtroom experience can make or break a personal injury case. He explains how trial-tested attorneys approach evidence, handle negotiations, and earn respect from insurance companies — often leading to better settlements for their clients. Chris also shares stories from his own trial experience, including a Supreme Court case, and offers advice for anyone choosing a personal injury lawyer in Louisiana.

00:00 – Why trial experience still matters in personal injury law. 01:20 – How courtroom experience affects negotiation leverage. 03:00 – How trial experience shapes strategy from day one. 04:30 – How insurers view lawyers who regularly try cases. 06:00 – Why credibility and reputation influence settlement offers. 07:30 – Key skills lawyers develop by actually trying cases. 09:30 – How trial experience helped win a Louisiana Supreme Court case. 11:30 – What clients face if their attorney avoids trial. 13:30 – How to research an attorney’s real courtroom record. 14:50 – Why experience and preparation give clients stronger results.

Pierce & Shows Personal Injury Postscript features Attorney Chris Shows, a Baton Rouge personal injury lawyer with over 30 years of experience. Each episode provides insight into Louisiana injury law and practical advice for accident victims seeking fair compensation.

In this episode, Attorney Chris Shows explains what really happens when insurance adjusters—or “claims specialists”—contact accident victims after a crash. He breaks down their real motives, how the process has changed over the years, and why accident victims should be extremely careful about what they say. Chris also shares smart tips for gathering evidence, protecting your claim, and avoiding costly mistakes when dealing with insurance companies in Louisiana.

00:00 – Overview of what insurance adjusters do and how their role has evolved. 01:30 – Why they focus on minimizing claims, not helping victims. 03:00 – How adjusters use your words against you and why experience gives them an edge. 05:00 – Why you should hang up quickly and avoid verbal discussions. 06:30 – Simple ways to end a call without harming your claim. 08:00 – Questions designed to make you admit fault or downplay your injuries. 10:00 – What photos, witness info, and records to gather at the scene. 12:30 – What to do if you’ve given a statement or accepted partial payment. 14:30 – How attorneys prevent miscommunication and protect your rights. 16:00 – The importance of getting legal help early after an accident.

Pierce & Shows Personal Injury Postscript shares practical advice for accident victims in Louisiana. Each episode breaks down legal topics in plain English to help listeners understand their rights and make smart decisions after a car, truck, or motorcycle accident.